Map of the Roman Empire, 376 C.E. and Teutonic (Germanic) migrations. Barbarian Migrations and migrations across Europe: Northmen, Ostrogoths, Visigoths, Lombards, Burgundians, Vandals, Jutes, Angles, Danes, Saxons, Franks, Normans, Goths.
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In 376 C.E., a significant event occurred when the Visigoths, fleeing the advancing Huns, sought refuge within the eastern borders of the Roman Empire. The Roman authorities allowed them to settle in the Balkans, but poor treatment, including extortion and starvation, led to unrest. Tensions erupted into open conflict, resulting in the Battle of Adrianople in 378 C.E., where the Visigoths defeated the Roman army and killed Emperor Valens. This marked a turning point, as Rome increasingly relied on treaties with barbarian groups, allowing them to settle within its borders in exchange for military service. Over time, such settlements eroded Roman authority and helped reshape the political map of Europe.
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